Radiofrequency neurotomy, also called radiofrequency ablation or lesion, is a procedure that intentionally injures the nerves in order to prevent the transmission of pain signals to the brain and their processing. This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed for patients with chronic pain who have not found relief from more conservative treatments.
Radiofrequency procedures can be used for patients with pain from a degenerative disc, facet joint, or sacro-Siberian (SI) joint. Using fluoroscopy, the electrode is inserted into the body and placed on the target nerve. After proper positioning, the electrode is heated to create damage on the nerve. A later, extended procedure form includes the cooling phase; this increases the area of exposure of the electrode and can be useful in certain areas of the body.
This treatment is not a permanent solution; over time, the nerves heal and the pain returns. It is important to remember that radio frequency is a treatment that eliminates the symptom of pain, not its original cause. Review the following pros and cons before deciding whether to receive this procedure.
Pros
For people who cannot perform daily work or work due to pain, a procedure such as radiofrequency neurotomy can be extremely positive. If it is effective, the procedure can allow people to return to work and perform basic daily activities, such as walking without excessive pain.
The results of radiofrequency treatment can last up to a year or two, which can make it more attractive than steroid injections, another common treatment for back and SI pain in the joints.
Neurotomy is a less invasive procedure than other surgical methods for eliminating pain in joints and discs, in particular fusion surgery. Fusion creates a hard segment between the vertebrae or the pelvic bone and the sacrum to suppress the painful movement from instability. The procedure is accompanied by a high price and many risks, including accelerated degeneration of the facet joints and spinal discs near the merged joint. Radiofrequency damage can provide sufficient pain relief to avoid more invasive surgery.
Studies show that this procedure is to some extent beneficial to about 70% of those who receive it, and that it can reduce dependence on expensive and dangerous painkillers. See http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/studies-published-in-pain-medicine-demonstrate-effectiveness-of-minimally-invasive-cooled-radiofrequency-treatment-for-low-back-pain- 194185701 .html for collecting studies that support the use of cooled radius for disgogennaya and singolovoy pain in the joints.
Cons
A radiofrequency lesion increases the pain before making it better. The initial week after the procedure may be difficult due to local pain and swelling. Some patients who receive treatment report that it may take a month or two to feel any positive effects.
Some patients receiving treatment never feel relief. Some may even experience more pain if the procedure was performed incorrectly and the target nerve was completely damaged; this will increase his signal of pain. See http://www.spine-health.com/forum/treatment/pain-management/rf-neurotomy-ablation-has-worked-you-how-long-did-it-take-notice-res to read reviews of the procedure from several people who received it.
It should be remembered that this treatment is not a medicine; it just masks the pain. No matter what your pain is caused by a degenerated disc, an aspect joint, or a synchronous connection, it is important to continue your efforts to solve the problem of undermining. Explore alternative medicine to find treatment options that you may not be aware of. Take advantage of painless or reduced time after radiofrequency treatment to get through physical therapy, strengthening the core muscles that support the joints and spinal discs.
Radiofrequency neurotomy may be the right treatment for you if pain interferes with your quality of life. However, the focus of any treatment plan for chronic pain should be to consider the cause of the pain, and not just mask the symptom.
